Beach
Palamós prawns are not only the star product of the Costa Brava, but also widely recognised as the best in the world. Vermilion in colour, with an exquisite flavour, they are distinguished from other varieties by their sweeter flavour. Dating from the 13th century, the delightful seaside town of Palamós is alive with fish-related business; both its fishing museum and fish market are worth visiting. Also known for its excellent sandy beaches, it is a centre for watersports and a good base for boat trips.
A 20-minute walk from town, and 150m from the splendid beach of La Fosca, Hotel Ancora is particularly popular with families. Bright and clean, the property is run by a family who welcome guests with great warmth and it has an excellent restaurant which specialises in freshly-caught fish sourced daily, direct from the Palamós Fishery. Within the hotel’s enormous garden, there is a swimming pool and a mini golf course, and bicycles are available to hire. A seven-night B&B stay costs from £813 pp (two sharing), including return flights, 23 kg pp hold luggage allowance, and transfers.
The town of Palafrugell, near Palamós, has what can be classed as three coastal suburb fishing villages - Tamariu, Llafranc and Calella. According to our chairman, Noel Josephides, who used to holiday in Llafranc with his parents in the mid-1960s, the nature of the area has not changed at all. There are no high-rise buildings, the hotels are small, and it remains hidden amongst the forest of pine trees which tumble down to exquisite coves of sand.
Hotel Llafranc dates from 1958 and attracted Hollywood’s best back then, including Rock Hudson, Sophia Loren, Kirk Douglas and Elizabeth Taylor. Still family owned, Adelita continues to cook her signature dishes. The squid ink black rice is outstanding. A seven-night B&B stay costs from £1,011 pp (two sharing), including return flights, 23 kg pp hold luggage allowance, and transfers.